Zinedine Zidane is waiting! Ex-Real Madrid boss keeping an eye on Kylian Mbappe and Co. as France legend prepares to make long-awaited return after Didier Deschamps exit

Zinedine Zidane is eyeing the France job after Didier Deschamps’ 2026 exit, with Kylian Mbappe among the stars eager to see him take charge.

  • Deschamps will step down after the 2026
  • Zidane remains the favourite to replace him
  • legend has monitored players including Mbappe

Zinedine Zidane is waiting! Ex-Real Madrid boss keeping an eye on Kylian Mbappe and Co. as France legend prepares to make long-awaited return after Didier Deschamps exitZinedine Zidane is waiting! Ex-Real Madrid boss keeping an eye on Kylian Mbappe and Co. as France legend prepares to make long-awaited return after Didier Deschamps exitZinedine Zidane is waiting! Ex-Real Madrid boss keeping an eye on Kylian Mbappe and Co. as France legend prepares to make long-awaited return after Didier Deschamps exit

Deschamps will step down as France manager after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable 13-year reign, and Zidane is seen as the most likely replacement. The former coach has been patiently waiting for the opportunity, having refused multiple club offers since leaving Los Blancos in 2021 with the aim of taking over the team. According to L’Equipe Zidane has been closely following Les Bleus, monitoring players and competitions to prepare for the role. Several senior stars, including Mbappe, are said to be eager to work under the 1998 World Cup winner, who remains one of the most iconic figures in French football.

The 53-year-old reportedly turned down blank cheque offers from Manchester and , while also rejecting a €100 million (£84m/$113m) one-year deal from Saudi side Al-Hilal. Instead, his focus has been entirely on the France post, which he views as the ultimate role. Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation (FFF), is treading carefully. He wants Deschamps to finish his reign without external pressure, while also weighing other candidates such as Thierry Henry. However, Zidane’s reputation, success at Madrid, and connection with France’s players, notably Mbappe, make him the overwhelming favourite.

The 1998 Ballon d’Or winner’s coaching reputation remains sky-high after guiding Madrid to three consecutive titles and a league triumph during his two stints in charge. His bond with Les Blues runs just as deep, he remains the hero of their 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 triumphs. Close associates suggest he already knows the profiles of every France-eligible player inside out and is quietly building his vision for the squad he could inherit after the 2026 World Cup.

Deschamps will remain focused on leading France at the 2026 World Cup, aiming to end his reign on a high. Behind the scenes, all signs point to Zidane finally stepping into the dugout for France once the World Cup concludes. Until then, he will continue to wait, turning down club riches to chase his one true dream.